STEM Superstars: Malaysian Women Who Trailblaze the Field

When I was a kid, I was always fascinated with outer space. So, I thought I’d grow up to be an astronaut. Spoiler alert: that didn’t happen. Instead, I was told that science and technology were “too hard” and that girls like me should aim for “simpler” careers. Sound familiar? Many of my friends also gave up their dreams of becoming doctors or engineers for the same reasons. But here’s the plot twist: things are changing. Today, women in STEM in Malaysia are making waves, breaking stereotypes, and showing that no field is off-limits. While our progress is exciting, we’re not done yet. There’s more to do to ensure every girl gets the chance to chase her STEM dreams.

Rocket Science? No Problem for Them

Today, more Malaysian women are breaking into fields that were once seen as a “boys-only club.” Take Norilmi Amilia Ismail, founder and CEO of SpaceIn. She’s not just launching satellites, she’s launching opportunities for others. Norilmi’s work with satellite IoT is revolutionizing how remote areas stay connected.

And then there’s Florence Tan, who works with NASA on missions like the Curiosity Rover. Her work proves that Malaysian talent reaches beyond the stars. Florence also spends her time inspiring young women to join STEM. Seriously, is there anything cooler than building gadgets that will fly out of planet Earth?

Amira Aqilah Muhammad is bringing science to life right here at home. As a PhD student at Universiti Malaya, she studies how Asian weaver ants adapt to Kuala Lumpur’s parks. Her research isn’t just about insects, it’s about protecting local ecosystems. By understanding their behavior, she’s shaping conservation efforts and urban planning proving that science isn’t just about discovery; it’s about making a real difference in our local communities!

Saving Lives, One Discovery at a Time

In health and medicine, women in STEM in Malaysia are also driving change. Dr. Nadiah Abu is a game-changer in cancer research. Her work on early detection through bodily fluids makes screenings cheaper and more accessible, because saving lives shouldn’t come with a premium price tag.

Meanwhile, Dr. Shivaani Mariapun focuses on breast cancer risk in Asian women. By studying mammographic density, she’s uncovering crucial insights that could save lives. These women remind us that success isn’t just about personal achievements; it’s about paving the way for others to follow.

Sky’s Not the Limit, It’s Just the Beginning

Ts. Uma Shangery Aruldass is smashing stereotypes in a male-dominated field as the Technical Services and Planning Manager at Berjaya Air. When I met her in November 2023, her passion for aerospace engineering was written all over her face. She most recently earned a 2024 Women’s Space Award for her contributions to aerospace engineering!

Alina Amir is also changing the game in her own way, by shaping the next generation of tech-savvy Malaysians. As the co-founder of Arus Academy, a social enterprise dedicated to equipping marginalized children with 21st-century skills, she is ensuring that underprivileged students are not left behind. Showing us that the future of women in STEM in Malaysia starts in the classroom, with access to quality education and opportunities. Nurturing the nation’s future step by step!

The Future Is Female … And Full of STEM

Although I didn’t end up in STEM, I often wonder what could’ve been if my passion for science had been nurtured. How many young girls in Malaysia are still missing out on their dreams because they don’t have the encouragement they need? The good news is that things are changing. Programmes, scholarships, and initiatives are opening doors for women in STEM in Malaysia to thrive. But we can’t stop now. Let’s make sure every girl with a dream of being an engineer, doctor, or scientist gets the support she needs to shine.

These women show us what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. They’re breaking barriers, leading change, and proving that no dream is too big. As we celebrate the International Day of Women and Girls in Science this month, let’s commit to doing more. Whether it’s mentoring, creating STEM programmes, or simply cheering young women on, every step counts. The future of women in STEM in Malaysia is bright. Let’s make sure every girl who dreams big has the chance to change the world one equation at a time.